luxury desert tour 3days 2 night fez merzouga ouarzazat marakech

Traveling from the historic city of Fez to the bustling Marrakech in just three days might seem ambitious, but this carefully curated tour promises to pack in some of Morocco’s most iconic sights and memorable experiences. Designed for those craving a blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural highlights, this tour has earned an impressive 4.5 out of 5 from over 111 reviews—testament to its appeal.

We love this experience because it offers an intimate journey through diverse landscapes, from cedar forests and lush oasis to the stark beauty of the Sahara dunes. The opportunity to ride a camel into the sunset, camp among the sands, and explore UNESCO-listed kasbahs makes it a real highlight. Plus, the small group size—limited to nine travelers—means you get a more personal, less rushed experience.

That said, a potential consideration is the long hours on the road. If you’re not a fan of extensive driving, this might be a demanding trip, especially since the itinerary is quite packed.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Morocco’s highlights without sacrificing comfort and appreciate authentic experiences over luxury, all within a reasonable budget.

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: From cedar forests and Atlas mountains to Sahara dunes and lush valleys.
• Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, desert camping, visits to kasbahs, and scenic gorges.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private tents with bathrooms in the desert camp, hotel nights in charming accommodations.
• Small Group: Limited to nine travelers for a more personalized journey.
• Long Drives: Expect extensive hours in the vehicle, but with strategic stops along the way.
• Value for Money: At $244.26 per person, it offers a comprehensive Moroccan adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Fez to Merzouga

The adventure begins early at 8 am, with pickup from your hotel or riad in Fez. The first stretch takes you through Ifran, often called the “Switzerland of Morocco” due to its lush landscapes and alpine vibe. You’ll love the scenic drive past the Middle Atlas mountains, with its charming villages and terraced hillsides.

Next, you’ll stop in Azrou, a Berber village famous for its cedar forest—the largest in Morocco. This is where you might spot Barbary apes swinging through the trees, which is a fun surprise for many travelers. It’s a chance to stretch your legs amid nature before continuing through the hills to Midelt.

The journey continues through the Tiz Ntalghamt pass and Ziz Gorge, showcasing Morocco’s changing scenery from mountains to desert outlines. The drive is long—about 15 hours including stops—so packing snacks and patience is advised. Reviewers highlight the comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle and the driver’s local insights, with many noting that the drive itself becomes part of the experience.

Day 2: Sahara Sunrise and Desert Adventures

Waking early for the sunrise over the dunes is a must-do, as the shifting light turns the sands into a magical, almost surreal spectacle. After soaking in the view, you’ll return to the camp for breakfast amid the dunes—an experience described as “heartwarming” and “spectacular” by travelers. Many mention that the luxury camp tents are surprisingly comfortable, with private bathrooms, although some note the absence of air conditioning in the desert heat.

From Merzouga, the tour heads to Rissani for a lively market visit (market days are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday), where you can observe local Berber life. Continuing east, you’ll visit Erfoud to see the fossilized marble factories, offering a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

The highlight of the day is reaching the Todra Gorges, carved out by the river over thousands of years. Travelers rave about the towering cliff sides and dramatic landscape that make it one of the most scenic spots in the High Atlas. You’ll get plenty of photo opportunities here, and some reviews mention the gorge as a “must-see” destination.

Day 3: From the High Atlas to Marrakech

The final day is a scenic journey through Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” famous for its cinema studios and the impressive Kasbah of Taourirt. You’ll have some time to explore and soak in the film history, as well as visit the Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning kasbahs and traditional architecture.

On the way to Marrakech, you’ll get sweeping views of the Dadès Valley from a lookout point—many reviews mention this as a highlight, describing the scenery as “breathtaking.” The route also takes you through Kasbahs and the Roses Valley, where the landscape is dotted with colorful blossoms and traditional villages.

You’ll arrive in Marrakech in the late afternoon or evening, completing your whirlwind Moroccan adventure.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:

• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour
• Private tent with bathroom in the desert camp
• Hotel accommodation in charming Gorges du Dadès
• Camel ride into the Sahara
• Two dinners and two breakfasts
• Sandboarding opportunity during the desert stay

Not Included:

• Lunches (which gives you flexibility and the chance to try local eateries)
• Museum entry fee in Ouarzazate (€8 per person)

The tour’s price of $244.26 per person offers value, considering the comprehensive itinerary, accommodations, and activities. Reviewers note that for the price, they received more than just a drive, with many appreciating the quality of the camp and the scenic stops.

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long hours on Moroccan roads. The small group size—limited to nine travelers—promotes a more relaxed atmosphere and personal attention from guides. Many comments praise the professionalism and friendliness of drivers like Emmad, who is noted for being attentive, knowledgeable, and skilled at navigating Moroccan roads.

Highlights From Reviewers

Those who loved their experience highlight the Sahara desert—describing it as “unforgettable,” with some calling it a “highlight of Morocco.” The camel ride at sunset, the luxury desert camp, and the scenic stops along the way are recurring favorites.

Several mention that the scenery along the route is stunning—ranging from Atlas mountains to gorge views—and that the local guides and drivers make a difference, often going above and beyond to ensure a memorable trip.

On the other hand, some reviews flag long driving hours and tight schedules as drawbacks. A few mention communication issues or less-than-expected amenities, which is worth considering if you prioritize luxury or detailed guided commentary.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes without sacrificing comfort. It suits those who are comfortable with long drives in exchange for authentic stops and scenic highlights. If you want small group intimacy and a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, this tour is a good fit.

It’s not the best choice if you’re after luxury accommodations throughout or detailed guided cultural explanations—though many reviews praise the guides’ local insights, some mention communication gaps. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy photography, scenic stops, and a taste of desert life.

The Sum Up

This 3-day tour from Fez to Marrakech offers a comprehensive taste of Morocco’s highlights with a focus on the Sahara and iconic kasbahs. The small group size and comfortable accommodations make for a personal, engaging experience. Expect long days on the road, but with plenty of stops that reward you with unforgettable views and local flavor.

The desert camp, camel rides, and visits to the famous sites make it a value-packed trip for those wanting an authentic adventure without breaking the bank. The tour strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort, making it one of the more popular options for travelers eager to see Morocco in a compact package.

If you’re a traveler who loves stunning landscapes, memorable desert nights, and small-group experiences, this tour will satisfy your wanderlust and leave you with stories to tell for years.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or riad in Fez is included, making it easy to start your adventure stress-free.

How many people are in each group?
Small groups are limited to nine travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and direct interaction with guides.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $244.26 per person, offering a good value considering the accommodations, activities, and scenic stops.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothing for long drives, layers for temperature changes, sun protection, and any personal essentials. Don’t forget your camera for all those stunning landscapes.

Are meals included?
Two dinners and two breakfasts are included. Lunches are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries.

Is the desert camp luxurious?
The tents are described as private with bathrooms, but some reviews note the absence of air conditioning and basic amenities in the desert heat.

How is the drive managed?
Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with knowledgeable drivers making the long hours more comfortable and informative.

Are there any hidden costs?
Entry fees for museums or sites, such as the museum in Ouarzazate (€8), are not included. Optional activities or extra drinks may also cost extra.

Can I do this tour if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves considerable driving and some walking at stops, so it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty in a small group setting—just be prepared for the time spent in transit.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Morocco tour fits your travel style. Whether you’re chasing dunes, kasbahs, or the thrill of the desert night, it offers a solid all-in-one experience that captures the essence of Morocco’s diverse charm.